Erev Lag B'Omer

What Is Erev Lag B’Omer?

Erev Lag B’Omer refers to the evening that precedes the Jewish observance of Lag B’Omer. It is observed by Jewish communities around the world, particularly in Israel, and is characterised by specific customs that differentiate it from the preceding days of the Omer counting period. The term “Erev” denotes the eve of a holiday or observance, as the Jewish day traditionally begins at sunset.

Lag B’Omer, which Erev Lag B’Omer ushers in, is the 33rd day of the 49-day “Counting of the Omer” that occurs between the festivals of Passover (Pesach) and Shavuot. This period is generally marked by a degree of semi-mourning, during which certain joyous activities, such as weddings and haircuts, are traditionally avoided. Erev Lag B’Omer, and the day of Lag B’Omer itself, represent a significant interruption in these customs, allowing for celebratory activities.

The most prominent custom associated with Erev Lag B’Omer, especially in Israel, is the lighting of large bonfires. These gatherings bring communities together for singing, eating, and storytelling, often continuing late into the night. It serves as a communal expression of joy and historical commemoration, setting the stage for the daytime observances of Lag B’Omer.

History and Origins of Erev Lag B’Omer

The origins of Erev Lag B’Omer are deeply embedded in Jewish history and tradition, specifically within the context of the Sefirat HaOmer, or the Counting of the Omer. This 49-day period links the Exodus from Egypt (Pesach) with the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai (Shavuot). Traditionally, this period has been observed as a time of partial mourning, linked to a devastating plague that afflicted the students of Rabbi Akiva, a prominent sage of the 2nd century CE. The Talmud records that this plague ceased on the 33rd day of the Omer.

Lag B’Omer, and thus its eve, became a day of respite from this mourning. Two primary historical interpretations contribute to the customs observed. One significant connection is to Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a student of Rabbi Akiva and a central figure in Kabbalah, to whom the Zohar is attributed. His passing (Hilula) is traditionally observed on Lag B’Omer, and his final instructions are said to have emphasised joy and light. The bonfires are often interpreted as symbolising the “light” of his teachings, which illuminated the world.

Another historical theory links Lag B’Omer to the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132-136 CE) against Roman rule. Some suggest that the 33rd day of the Omer marked a military victory for the Jewish rebels, or a period when fighting temporarily ceased. The bonfires could represent signals used by the rebels or a celebration of a moment of triumph. Regardless of the exact historical trigger, Erev Lag B’Omer serves as a commemoration of resilience, learning, and communal survival during challenging times.

How Erev Lag B’Omer Is Celebrated

The celebrations of Erev Lag B’Omer are marked by specific customs, predominantly centred around communal gatherings and the lighting of bonfires. These traditions are most pronounced in Israel but are also observed by Jewish communities globally.

Bonfire Gatherings

The central feature of Erev Lag B’Omer is the lighting of bonfires. Weeks before the observance, children in Israel often collect wood, sometimes building impressive piles in anticipation. On the eve, families and communities gather around these bonfires, sharing food, singing traditional songs, and telling stories. The atmosphere is generally festive and communal, providing a temporary reprieve from the more solemn mood of the Omer period. These fires are seen to represent the light of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai’s teachings or the cessation of the plague among Rabbi Akiva’s students.

Pilgrimage to Meron

One of the most significant observances connected to Erev Lag B’Omer and Lag B’Omer itself is the mass pilgrimage to the tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai in Meron, Israel. Millions of people, primarily from Orthodox Jewish communities, travel to this site. Celebrations there involve continuous prayer, study, singing, and dancing. A notable custom at Meron is the “upsherin,” the first haircut for three-year-old boys, which is often performed at the tomb during this time, marking a milestone in a child’s life.

Other Customs

While bonfires and the Meron pilgrimage are prominent, other traditions are also observed. Archery is sometimes practised, with some interpretations linking it to the rainbow that appeared after the Flood, representing a covenant, or to the martial skills of the Bar Kokhba rebels. Additionally, because Lag B’Omer marks a break in the semi-mourning of the Omer period, Erev Lag B’Omer often sees preparations for activities typically avoided earlier in the Omer, such as haircuts, musical events, and weddings, which become permissible from the beginning of Lag B’Omer itself.

When Is Erev Lag B’Omer?

Erev Lag B’Omer falls on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar. The Jewish calendar is lunisolar, meaning its dates are determined by both the moon’s phases and the solar year. Consequently, the corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar varies each year.

Since the Jewish day begins at sunset, Erev Lag B’Omer commences at dusk on the evening preceding the 33rd day of the Omer count. This means that the main bonfire celebrations and other evening activities associated with the observance take place as the 33rd day of the Omer effectively begins. The day of Lag B’Omer then continues until the following sunset. Typically, Erev Lag B’Omer and Lag B’Omer occur in late April or May in the Gregorian calendar.

Erev Lag B’Omer Key Facts